Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis is at the forefront of pivotal diplomatic discussions during this week’s NATO Foreign Ministers' meeting, focusing on strengthening support for Ukraine and advancing Greece’s strategic interests in an increasingly complex global landscape.
In his bilateral meetings, Mr. Gerapetritis is expected to engage with Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, reiterating Greece’s steadfast stance against any form of territorial revisionism.
He will emphasize that such actions contradict Greek national interests and principles, reaffirming Greece’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Additionally, on the margins of the NATO meeting, Mr. Gerapetritis is likely to hold an informal meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. While not officially scheduled, this conversation is expected to center on preparations for the upcoming High-Level Cooperation Council between Greece and Turkey, scheduled for early 2024. The council is seen as a key opportunity to address bilateral tensions and foster greater regional cooperation.
Mr. Gerapetritis will also attend the OSCE Ministerial Council in Malta, where Greece and Turkey are both competing for crucial leadership positions.
Greece has nominated Maria Telanian for the post overseeing human rights and the rule of law, while Turkey has put forward Feridun Sinirlioğlu for Secretary-General.
The election requires unanimous approval from all 56 OSCE member states, including Russia, adding complexity to the process.
A successful Greek bid would provide a significant diplomatic win, particularly as the OSCE is set to play a key role in the post-conflict reconstruction of Ukraine.
This flurry of high-level meetings underscores Greece’s active diplomatic strategy, with Mr. Gerapetritis positioning the country as a key player in the ongoing push for European security and stability.
Through these forums, Greece is working to bolster its influence in critical international conversations, especially in relation to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine and regional tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean.